Stalking – first charge laid

Police have laid the first charge under new stalking and harassment laws, marking early use of strengthened powers to protect victims.

A 39-year-old man was set to appear in Auckland District Court charged with stalking and harassment.

Police acting director of prevention, Inspector Natasha Allan, says it is an example of the prioritisation and pace that police will bring to this type of offending.

“Police have used the new powers available to us to support victims and intervene earlier to prevent behaviour from escalating,” she says.

“This should send a clear message to both victims and offenders Police will be enforcing these laws. We now have stronger tools to hold offenders to account, and we are and will be using them.”